A search team in Alaska has recovered the body a U.S. airman whose kayak overturned Friday evening on the Chena River in Fairbanks.

Staff Sgt. Christian Diaz, 24, of the 35th Fighter Generation Squadron at Kunsan Air Base in South Korea, was deployed to Eielson Air Force Base for training, according to recent statements from the 8th Fighter Wing and Fairbanks’ fire and police departments.

Diaz was kayaking with three friends near the Pioneer Park boat launch when his vessel capsized around 6:40 p.m., fire and police officials said in a joint statement Saturday. He was not wearing a life jacket.

Firemen launched an extensive search Friday evening, which transitioned to a recovery mission, the statement said.

Diaz’ body was recovered around 7 p.m. Sunday near the boat launch, the departments said in a news release that evening.

“We are deeply grateful to everyone who assisted in the search and recovery efforts … our heartfelt condolences go out to Christian’s family, friends, and fellow airmen during this incredibly difficult time,” the release said.

The wing confirmed in a Facebook post Sunday that Diaz was part of a contingent deployed to Eielson for Red Flag — large-scale, multinational air combat training held multiple times each year.

Fairbanks officials urged people to use caution on or near the Chena River.

“Conditions can be unpredictable and potentially dangerous, even for strong swimmers,” said Saturday’s joint statement, which emphasized the importance of wearing a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.

previous coverage

• Search continues for South Korea-based airman whose kayak overturned on Alaska river